PM Modi leaves for two-day Seychelles visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on an official visit to Seychelles on Saturday as New Delhi looks to strengthen ties with its key partner in the Indian Ocean.

During the two-day visit, which comes at the invitation of Seychelles President Patrick Herminy, Modi will participate in the golden jubilee celebrations of the country’s national day.

Seychelles also marks 50 years of India’s long-standing diplomatic relations, which were established following the East African nation’s independence on June 29, 1976.

“Seychelles is a valued maritime neighbor and a key partner in our Vision Ocean, as well as in advancing the interests of the Global South,” Modi said at the X before his departure.

India and its geopolitical rival China are competing for influence in the Indian Ocean.

A look at the strained relations between India and China

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What’s on Modi’s Seychelles agenda?

According to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Modi will hold bilateral talks with Hermini on the full spectrum of cooperation between the two countries.

The Indian leader is also expected to address the National Assembly of Seychelles.

Modi, who last visited the country in 2015, has been made the guest of honor for the jubilee.

A contingent of Indian Defense Forces and two ships of the Indian Navy will participate in the ceremony.

“The visit will reaffirm the strong and enduring friendship between India and Seychelles and reinforce the shared commitment of both countries to enhance bilateral relations in all sectors,” the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi said earlier this week.

I’m Dharvi Vaid Dhulia from DW Studios in New Delhi, bringing you all the big news and events making waves in India today.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the beautiful archipelago of Seychelles to attend the Golden Jubilee celebrations of that country’s National Day.

Upon his return to India, Modi is set to host Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takachi for a bilateral summit.

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